Drivers ed in Maryland is part of the Rookie Driver program, the state’s version of the graduated licensing system. The program is designed to help new drivers of all ages become acclimated with the state’s traffic laws and driving rules. The goal of a graduated licensing system is to help motorists build their driving skills progressively. Drivers ed classes are offered at private driving schools located throughout the state. All new drivers must complete an education course before receiving a full, unrestricted driver’s license in the state.

Drivers education in MD includes both classroom and behind-the-wheel experience. This combination allows new drivers to receive an all-inclusive, immersive training experience before taking the road test and receiving a driver’s license. For more information about driver’s education courses offered in Maryland and to learn about covered topics, how to enroll and how the course differs from traffic school, continue reading the topics discussed below.

Who needs to take drivers ed in Maryland?

Drivers ed in MD is required for all new drivers regardless of age. While it is commonly referred to as teen driving school, adult drivers must also enroll if they have never received a learner’s permit.

The education requirement helps beginner motorists prepare to take on Maryland’s roadways both in the classroom as well as behind-the-wheel. Adult drivers ed is the common term used by drivers older than 18 years of age, though there is no difference in instruction for adults and teens.

Types of Drivers Ed Classes in Maryland

Maryland only approves certain drivers education classes that are offered at physical locations throughout the state. The Motor Vehicle Administration (MVA) approves these private driving schools. Students can find a list of approved schools online and choose the one that best fits their schedules.

Drivers ed online is not currently accepted by the MVA. Drivers may only complete the necessary education at one of the approved schools listed. Those who find an online drivers ed course should note that it will not be accepted by the MVA. However, taking an online course can help improve the driver’s knowledge in addition to enrolling in an approved private driving school.

The traditional driver education course is offered in a classroom-style format. In addition to classroom training, students will receive instruction behind the wheel. Some high schools in Maryland may offer driver training as part of the junior or senior level coursework. Drivers who are still in high school should check whether their school offers a state-approved course.

What will you learn in a Maryland drivers ed school?

All Maryland drivers ed classes review basic driving concepts, such as operational procedures and maneuvers. Likewise, student drivers will learn about MD traffic laws, rules of the road, traffic safety and the consequences of committing traffic violations. The drivers ed test is a required component of the Rookie Driver program. After graduating from the course, student drivers will have the skills and knowledge to pass both the written and hands-on examinations.

The purpose of teen driving school is to inform new drivers about the dangers of distracted driving. As such, student drivers will learn about the consequences of drinking and driving, texting while driving and driving with friends while restricted.

Maryland Drivers Education Requirements

As part of the Rookie Driver program, all new drivers must complete the following MD drivers education requirements:

• 30 hours of classroom lessons
• Six hours of behind-the-wheel training

Before completing the on-road portion of the Rookie Driver requirements, students must receive their learner’s permits. The parent taught drivers ed portion allows parents or guardians to take their student driver out on the road to complete the on-road requirement. The parent or guardian must be an experienced, licensed driver older than 21 years of age who has held a license for at least three years.

Benefits of a Maryland Driver Education Course

The benefits of drivers education in MD are invaluable for all new motorists, but are especially helpful for younger drivers. This course is designed to help new drivers familiarize themselves with important driving laws, which lowers their risk of committing traffic violations. Enrolling in teen drivers ed also allows parents to have confidence that their young driver is ready to take on the Maryland roadways and practice safe driving habits.

How to Enroll in a Maryland Driver Ed School

Motorists who are ready to enroll in a drivers ed course in Maryland must contact one of the approved driving schools listed by the MVA. The driving school may require certain documents from the driver, such as a form of identification or high school transcript. Drivers should inquire about the program schedule to ensure that the packages offered align with their own schedules.

High school drivers ed courses may be offered in a high school setting. Teen drivers should check with their school board to inquire about driving courses in the curriculum. If offered, student drivers may complete their required coursework during the school day.

Maryland DMV Drivers Ed Certificates

Upon completing drivers education school, drivers receive a certificate of completion. This notice verifies that the driver has met the requirements of the Rookie Driver program. Most driving schools automatically forward this certificate to the Maryland MVA on the driver’s behalf. However, some drivers ed classes require the student drivers to submit their own certificates. Before sending the certificate to the MVA, drivers must ensure the form includes their:

• Driver’s license/permit number.
• Full name.
• Date of birth.

Drivers should forward the completion form to the following address:

Maryland Motor Vehicle Administration
6601 Ritchie Highway NE
Glen Burnie, MD 21062

Drivers Ed for New Maryland Residents

Out-of-state drivers education certificates of completion are not typically accepted by the MVA. Currently, the MVA has only approved certain specific certificates issued by the Delaware Board of Education that state that the certificate has been approved by the Maryland MVA. New MD residents who have completed drivers ed in another state must plan to enroll in an approved Maryland drivers ed course to receive a driver’s license. Only drivers whose licenses were issued within the past 18 months are exempt from this requirement.

Maryland Drivers Ed vs. Traffic School

A driver education course differs from a traffic school course. Defensive driving and traffic school allows drivers to avoid suspension or lower the amount of points on their records. All new motorists must complete an education course before they can receive a license. Drivers must be sure that they enroll in an approved drivers education course rather than a traffic school or defensive driving course, as they yield different results.

Maryland Driver Education Fees

Drivers ed prices in Maryland vary between traffic schools. Drivers can expect to pay anywhere from $275-$500 for a state-approved driving course, which may or may not include behind-the-wheel instruction.

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